Albuquerque Public Schools
Big Wins for Little Artisans
Zia Elementary students score top honors in Lego building and baking at the 2026 New Mexico State Fair.
Students from Zia Elementary School showed off their creativity and culinary skills at the 2026 New Mexico State Fair, bringing home a stack of top ribbons across multiple youth competitions.
In the youth design categories, students from Ms. Hammel’s class took inspiration from the local community, constructing detailed Lego models that honored iconic public art and architecture from across the city. Among the standout builders were third grader Javi, who earned a First Place ribbon for his replica of Albuquerque's famous Giant Red Arrow, and second grader Jack, who secured both First Place and Best of Show honors for his intricate model of the Fish Globe.
Meanwhile, Ms. Agee’s young chefs turned up the heat in the youth baking division, using global recipes to explore culture through food. Her fifth-grade students earned a Second Place ribbon for their creative "Monster Matcha Macarons," while her fourth-grade class swept the division with a First Place and Best of Show win for their "Australian Apple Anzac" cupcakes.
Ms. Agee shared that beyond the excitement of the blue ribbons, the real reward was watching her students connect their hands-on work to broader concepts. "Our students are now well-prepared to answer our essential question: 'How does baking act as a global bridge?'" she noted.
From architectural scale models to international treats, Zia Elementary’s students proved that curiosity, critical thinking and craftsmanship go hand in hand.